Mobile ADAS Sensor Calibration via Target Orientation Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) sensors in vehicles require periodic realignment or recalibration due to wear and tear, misalignment from driving conditions, or collisions, which cannot be effectively addressed by traditional methods outside a service facility.
Innovation Solution
A mobile system and method using a transport vehicle equipped with a target positioning system to align and calibrate ADAS sensors by positioning calibration targets relative to the sensors, utilizing actuators, light projectors, imagers, and distance sensors to determine and adjust the target's orientation for accurate calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional sensor calibration methods are used outside a service facility, then mobility and convenience are improved, but calibration accuracy and precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A transport vehicle equipped with a target positioning system serves as an intermediary mobile calibration platform. The system includes a target adjustment stand with actuators that can precisely position calibration targets relative to vehicle sensors, enabling accurate calibration in field conditions without requiring a fixed service facility.
Solution Approach 2:
The target positioning system incorporates multiple actuators that can dynamically adjust the position and orientation of calibration targets in real-time. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to compensate for variations in vehicle positioning and environmental conditions, maintaining calibration accuracy while providing mobile service.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mobile target positioning system is deployed, then calibration accessibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport vehicle is designed as a universal mobile calibration platform that can service multiple vehicle types and sensor configurations. The target positioning system integrates multiple functions including target positioning, orientation adjustment, and calibration execution within a single system, reducing the need for multiple specialized equipment sets.
Solution Approach 2:
The target adjustment stand is movably mounted within the transport vehicle, allowing it to be stored in a compact configuration during transport and deployed when needed. The system nests the calibration equipment within the vehicle structure, optimizing space utilization and reducing overall system footprint.
3Measurement precision
If actuators are used to adjust target position, then calibration precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with automated actuators controlled by a computing system. This substitution enables precise, repeatable positioning without requiring complex mechanical linkages, reducing overall mechanical complexity while improving positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator system is controlled by a computing system that automatically determines the required target position and orientation based on sensor data and calibration requirements. The system performs self-adjustment without requiring manual intervention, simplifying operation and reducing the need for complex control interfaces.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables convenient and accurate recalibration of ADAS sensors in remote locations, optimizing sensor performance and maintaining ADAS functionality, as per OEM specifications.
Implementation Method 1
each including a light projector and configured for mounting to the opposed wheel assemblies of the vehicle furthest from the target adjustment stand, with the forward wheel clamps each including an aperture and being configured for mounting to the opposed wheel assemblies of the vehicle closest to the target adjustment stand. The light projectors are operable to selectively project light at respective ones of the apertures
Implementation Method 2
The target adjustment stand further includes a pair of imagers with each imager operable to image projected light passing through respective ones of the apertures, with the computing system being operable to determine the orientation of the vehicle relative to the target adjustment stand based on the images of projected light obtained by the imagers
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile system and method of calibrating an ADAS sensor of a vehicle by aligning a target with the sensor, where a transport vehicle is equipped with a target adjustment stand for transporting to the vehicle, which is initially nominally positioned in front of the target adjustment stand that includes a movable target mount configured to support a target, with the target adjustment stand including one or more actuators for adjusting the position of the target mount. A computer system is used to determine an orientation of the vehicle relative to the target adjustment stand, with the position of the target mount being adjusted based on the determined orientation of the vehicle relative to the target adjustment stand. Upon properly orienting the target mount, and the target supported thereon, a calibration routine is performed whereby the sensor is calibrated using the target.